Aviation Australia - Boeing 727-77C - VH-TBS
The Journey of a Boeing 727 - VH-RMS, C2-RN7 & VH-TBS)
VH-RMS over Washington State, USA prior to acceptance and delivery from ANSETT Australia. Image thanks to Boeing
The story of our VH-TBS tags is a remarkable journey through the skies, showcasing the evolution of air travel and the changing landscape of the aviation industry in Australia.
A New Beginning
Ordered fresh off the production line by Ansett Transport Industries, VH-RMS first took to the skies on October 20, 1969, in Seattle. Just eleven days later, on October 31, it officially entered the Australian Aircraft Register, marking the beginning of its service with Ansett Transport Industries (Operations) Pty Ltd, based in Melbourne.
The aircraft's delivery flight, a long journey from Seattle to Australia, began on October 31 and included a series of stops: San Francisco, Honolulu, Wake Island, Port Moresby, and Brisbane, before finally landing at Melbourne’s Essendon Airport on November 2, 1969.
First Revenue Service and Versatile Operations
VH-RMS was ready for its inaugural revenue service on November 8, 1969, quickly establishing itself in the aviation market. The aircraft operated with a 98-seat passenger configuration during the day, while transitioning to freighter operations at night—demonstrating its versatility and adaptability in meeting the demands of the industry.
By February 19, 1970, it had completed its first Melbourne (Essendon) to Perth jet freight flight, further solidifying its role in Ansett’s operations.
A Brush With Fame
Sweedish Band ABBA Departing their tour plane, VH-RMS. Photographer Unknown.
In March 1977, VH-RMS played a significant role in the iconic Swedish pop group ABBA's Australian tour. The aircraft was chartered to transport the band and their entourage between concert locations, ensuring a seamless travel experience during their whirlwind tour.
VH-RMS was essential for logistics, accommodating the band members, crew, and their equipment. Its configuration allowed for both passenger and cargo transport, providing ample space for the band's gear and staff.
The use of VH-RMS during this tour added to its storied history, showcasing its versatility not only as a cargo and passenger aircraft but also as part of significant cultural events in aviation.
The End of an Era
After more than a decade of dedicated service, VH-RMS operated its final revenue flight on January 29, 1980, completing the journey from Adelaide (West Beach) to Melbourne (Tullamarine) as AN213. This marked the conclusion of Ansett's last Boeing 727-77 passenger service. The aircraft was subsequently withdrawn from use and stored at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport.
A New Chapter with Air Nauru
Photo by Captain John Laming AFC
In May 1980, VH-RMS was sold to Air Nauru. Following its cancellation from the Australian Aircraft Register on May 15, it was re-registered as C2-RN7 and named 'Chief Diamon.' It began its new life on May 16, 1980, operating as a freighter on routes including Melbourne to Noumea.
However, by September 24, 1983, it was withdrawn from service with Air Nauru. A new opportunity arose when it was dry-leased to Trans-Australia Airlines (TAA) in April 1984, operating its first TAA Air Cargo service the following day.
A Series of Transformations
Throughout the late 1980s and into the 1990s, VH-RMS underwent numerous changes in ownership, operational roles and one final registration; VH-TBS.
After being registered under various names and companies, it was ultimately sold to Rothschild Australian Aircraft Leasing Ltd and leased to Qantas. By September 1993, it had been repainted into DHL livery and operated freight services predominantly between Sydney and Auckland.
After a brief period with Premier Airlines, VH-TBS returned to the Australian aviation landscape, operating for Australian Air Express.
Final Days and Legacy
Photograph by aeroprints.com, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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In October 2003, the aircraft made its last flight for Australian Air Express and was subsequently stored at Brisbane Airport. In February 2004, it was sold to Australian Aviation Pty Ltd and donated to the Australian Training College in Brisbane as a training aid.
Registered to Aviation Australia Pty Ltd in May 2006, VH-TBS was ultimately scrapped at Brisbane Airport in late 2021, concluding a remarkable journey that spanned over five decades.
Photographer Unknown
Conclusion
The tale of VH-TBS is more than just a chronicle of an aircraft; it represents a significant era in aviation history, highlighting the aircraft's adaptability, the challenges faced by the industry, and the evolution of air transport in Australia. Each flight and every service contributed to the rich tapestry of aviation, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered by enthusiasts and professionals alike.